Chinook Salmon

About

Chinook salmon, also known as king salmon, are the largest species of Pacific salmon. They can grow up to 4.9 feet in length and weigh up to 129 pounds, though typical adults are about 3 feet long and 30 pounds. These fish are characterized by their blue-green back, silvery sides, and white belly, with black spots on the tail and upper body. Chinook salmon are anadromous, meaning they are born in freshwater streams, migrate to the ocean to grow, and return to their birthplace to spawn. Chinook salmon are known for their remarkable migrations, sometimes traveling over 3,000 km upstream to reach their spawning grounds. During this journey, they face numerous obstacles, including dams and waterfalls. Once they spawn, they die, but their carcasses provide vital nutrients to the ecosystem. Chinook salmon are important prey for many marine and terrestrial species, including orcas and bears. They are also a prized food source for humans, both commercially and recreationally. However, some populations are endangered due to threats like overfishing and habitat loss.